The 180 degree rule involves the camera remaining on the same side of an imaginary line. It shouldn't cross over the line through cutting at any point. If the camera is placed to the left side of the characters, it should remain at this side throughout the scene. The camera can move to any places on the left, but must remain on the same side. Every frame must continue this 180 degree rule if it is in the same scene.
The 180 degree rule is important as it keeps orientation of the scene. If the camera jumps back and forth between both sides of the imaginary line the audience may become disorientated. The surroundings and characters may appear misplaced and peculiar. It is especially confusing if the scene involves chases, conversation or sport due to movement. If the 180 degree rule is crossed, it often gives the impression that the characters, for example in conversation, are sat in the same place, suggesting their talking to themselves, therefore giving unrealistic interpretations. A crucial problem with breaking the rule is that it may affect an audience's attention span. They may become uninterested in the film if the shots are misplaced and all over. As result they may miss crucial parts of the film, and not pick up on things that may be important to the plot.
Our example of following the 180 Degree Rule:
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Here is an example of breaking the rule. From this scene, it is clear that breaking the rule can disorientate and confuse the audience. (jump to 1:25)
However, there are a series of ways to break the 180 degree rule correctly.
A key way to cross the line without disorientating the audience is by showing camera movement. If two people are having a conversation and the camera needs to cross the line, the camera much show its transformation from the original position to the new position. This could be done through a tracking/dolly movement, in which the camera moves around the person from left to right, finishing on the other side of the line. This stops the audience from getting confused about the misplacement of location and characters. By showing the movement of the camera, the audience are aware of the new position and do not feel cheated by quick cut shots.
An example of this rule breaking can be seen here:
Another way to break the 180 degree rule is start off by filming the character from one side, for example with the character walking on from the right. The camera would then swap to head on shot, facing the character. To cross the line the camera could then swap to the left side of the line. This is an effective method in breaking the rule whilst keeping the audience orientated. It is also effective if the individual/object is someone/thing important as it allows the camera to focus on them and cross the line at the same time.
One way to break the rule is when the character is crossing through a door. If the camera is on the left side of the line when the character is entering, the rule can be broken when shooting from within the room the character entered. Upon the character entering room, it does not matter which side of the line the camera is shooting the shot in. This is because entering a room, is a change of location and therefore maintaining the 180 degree rule is unimportant. The audience would be oblivious to this crossing of the line, and its subtle nature does not take away any important information shown in the film.
You can break the 180 degree rule when shooting a scene where a character is walking up the stairs. This is because the character is travelling upwards/downwards, and therefore can only go one way.
